Economics of Westward Expansion (1865-1898)

Flashcards covering the economic changes, plight of farmers, and incentives for westward migration during the settlement of the West.

Mechanization of Agriculture

The transformation of agriculture through the introduction of machines like the Mechanical Reaper and Combine Harvester, leading to increased crop production and the obsolescence of small farmers.

Mechanical Reaper

A machine that harvests crops, replacing human and animal labor in agriculture.

Combine Harvester

A machine that combines the tasks of reaping, threshing, and winnowing, increasing efficiency in crop production.

Economic Hardships for Farmers (1870-1900)

Increased crop production led to a surplus, causing prices to decline, which made it difficult for small farmers to survive.

Industrial Trusts

Entities that maintained high prices on manufactured goods, making it difficult for farmers to afford essential items.

Railroad Problems

Railroad owners charged high prices for shipping crops, further reducing farmers' profits.

National Grange Movement

Farmers organized to resist economic changes, advocating for laws to regulate railroad rates and abusive corporate practices.

Granger Laws

State laws passed in the Midwest to regulate railroad rates and corporate practices.

Interstate Commerce Act of 1886

Required railroad rates to be 'reasonable and just' and established the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) to enforce regulations.

Pacific Railroad Acts

Federal initiatives that granted land to railroad companies to build a transcontinental railroad.

Transcontinental Railroad

Completed in 1869 at Promontory Summit, Utah, connecting the East and West coasts.

Homestead Act of 1862

Provided free land (160 acres) to settlers on the condition they would farm and settle it, though it often proved insufficient for making a living.

California Gold Rush (1848)

Initial surge of migrants seeking gold, spurring Westward Migration.

Pike's Peak Gold Rush (1869)

Gold discovery in Pike's Peak led to an influx of over 100,000 people, causing rapid population growth in newly established boomtowns.

Boomtowns

Towns like Denver City and Boulder City that sprang up overnight due to the gold rush, characterized by diverse populations seeking gold.